Virgin Voyages' ship Resilient Lady has commenced her MerMaiden voyage.
Departing from Melbourne, the adults-only "lady ship" (fleet's third vessel) is embarking on a 5-day roundtrip to Tasmania, sailing through the Bass Strait with an overnight in Hobart and a subsequent stop in Burnie.
Prior to departure, Sir Richard Branson (Virgin Group's Founder) hosted a sail-away gathering on the ship's pool deck, featuring a celebratory Champagne toast for the departing Sailors. This significant event marks the onset of Virgin Voyages' first of 17 voyages in the South Pacific Ocean this summer, offering itineraries ranging from 2 to 14 nights, traversing notable locales such as Tasmania, New Zealand's Fjords, and Australia's southern coast.
Amid the anticipation surrounding the brand's debut in the region, Virgin Voyages has already disclosed its return to Australia and New Zealand shores in December 2024. Promising passengers the signature epic experiences associated with Virgin Voyages, the brand has also introduced 9 new call ports for its second season.
Preceding the sail-away toast, Richard Branson engaged with Melbourne media during a press conference on Resilient Lady's pool deck. The discussion encompassed the cruise line's long-term plans for Australia and the South Pacific, emphasizing Branson's enthusiasm for this new chapter in Virgin Voyages' history within the Australian market.
Post-Q&A, Sir Richard Branson ventured into Resilient Lady's avant-garde restaurant, The Test Kitchen, where he showcased his culinary prowess alongside resident entertainer, foodie, and former My Kitchen Rules contestant, Jake Harrison. While Harrison added the finishing touches to his iconic Aussie lamington, Branson injected a playful element by initiating a good-natured food fight.